Authority rapped over processing of benefits

A COUNCIL has failed to make sufficient changes to improve its benefits service, according to the Accounts Commission.

In a report on how Aberdeenshire Council processes housing and council tax benefits, the commission said the local authority has not fully addressed concerns raised during previous audit work in 2008 and 2010.

The commission said the council has been consistently slower than the national average in processing new claims.

The report acknowledged that changes have been made, but said that the council needs to do more to ensure the quality of service improves.

The council defended improvements already made to its benefits service.

A spokesman said: “Following concentrated efforts undertaken by the section since 2009, performance has improved significantly. New claims are processed on average in 24 days, compared to 46 days in April 2010.

“This improved performance is as a result of a review of processes and investment in staff training.”

The commission has asked for a follow up report in a year.